Intense Cycles Interbike 2008
Jeff Steber owner/designer at Intense has spent no time resting after the success of his past creations like the Socom FRO and M6 FRO. Both of these bikes are great downhill machines that we have built (Socom / M6) and thoroughly tested (reviews coming soon). For 2009 Intense has unleashed a slew of new models giving buyers some impressive bikes to choose from when looking for their next bike. Intense had a few finished Tracer VP’s on display as well as their new Uzzi prototype and Tazer DJ hardtail.
Intense Uzzi prototype (click to enlarge)
The Uzzi is Intense’s freeride machine that has seen a little bit of an absence from their lineup. Jeff is bringing it back and making it more versatile by offering adjustable travel and using the newest generation of VPP suspension setup. It is meant to fill the gap between the new Tracer VP and the Socom.
the prototype was running a taper (1.5″ to 1 1/8″) steerer tube Totem (click to enlarge)
Many of the details are a little hazy as this is still a prototype and things can change as the development of the frame progresses. Below are a few of the features of the Uzzi at the moment.
adjustable travel via the upper suspension link (click to enlarge)
- 6.75″ or 7.25″ of travel
- 2nd gen VPP w/ new bearing zirk system
- ISCG 05
- Integrated BB
- 1.5 head tube
- Leverage ratio in the 2.5 to 1 range
- Coil or Air shock compatible
- 12mm or Maxle rear dropout
- 66 degree HA and 14.25 BB height w/ Totem
- Stout tubeset - uses the seat & chain stays spec’d on the M6, Socom, and Slope Style
Intense Tracer VP (click to enlarge)
The Tracer VP is Intense’s new trail and all mountain machine. It’s set up to be a versatile bike with the ability to build it up light for less aggressive riding or more burly for those who ride a little rougher terrain. The Tracer VP is available to buy now and comes in Works Red, Intense Red, Stealth Black, Pearl White, and Works.
Below are some of the features of the Tracer VP.
- Frame Weight: ~6.8 pounds,
- 5.5″ or 6″ of travel
- Upper bolts are grooved with an o-ring to help seal out the elements
- Suggested fork travel: 130mm to 160mm
- Zerk fittings can be found at the pivots which allow for lubrication without disassembly.
- 6″ travel position and 160mm fork give a 67.5 degree HA
- 5.5″ travel position and 140mm fork give a 69 degree HA
- No ISCG tabs at this time
Intense Tazer DJ (click to enlarge)
Intense will also be offering the Tazer DJ in 2009. It is the same frame design that JD Swanguen and Anneke Beerten have been racing all year. It will feature a convertible dropout that allows for a rear derailleur or single gear setup. Frame colors look to be Stealth Black and Intense Red.
